fit for the future community engagement · 2015-07-02 · 2 fit for the future community engagement...

Fit For the Future Community Engagement

Report of Results

Client: Gosford City Council

Date:

22 June 2015

Gosford City Council - Fit for the Future Proposal 30 June 2015

Appendix C Council Endorsed Final Version

Contact: Rachel Trigg

[email protected]

9387-2600

Sydney

02 9387 2600

Level 6

332-342 Oxford Street

Bondi Junction NSW 2022

www.elton.com.au [email protected]

Sydney | Canberra | Darwin ABN 56 003 853 101

Prepared by Lucy Greig

Reviewed by Rachel Trigg

Date 22 June 2015

Document name Final Report

Version Final



1 ENGAGEMENT OVERVIEW 1

2 INTRODUCTION 3

3 WHAT WE HEARD: PHONE SURVEY 7

4 WHAT WE HEARD: ONLINE AND FACE TO FACE INTERCEPT SURVEYS 28

APPENDICES

A Data collection instruments

B Promotional materials

C Accompanying survey results

Contents



FIGURES

Figure 1 Survey mode 4 Figure 2 Interest in participating in further consultation activities 5 Figure 3 Connection to Gosford City Council 7 Figure 4 Age 8 Figure 5 Precinct 8 Figure 6 Gender 9 Figure 7 Housing tenure 9 Figure 8 What participants like most about the Gosford area 10 Figure 9 Familiarity with Gosford City’s current mayor 10 Figure 10 Visits to Gosford City Council’s Customer Service Centres 11 Figure 11 Contact with Gosford City Council 11 Figure 12 Contact with Gosford City Council’s elected Councillors / Mayor 12 Figure 13 Satisfaction with Gosford City Council services 12 Figure 14 Kibble Park 13 Figure 15 Awareness of the local government reform program 14 Figure 16 Where did you hear about the local government reform program? 15 Figure 17 Interest in local government reform 15 Figure 18 ‘Shared services’ was most preferred by survey respondents overall 16 Figure 19 Reasons behind participants’ first preference 23 Figure 20 Reasons behind participants’ second preference 24 Figure 21 Reasons behind participants’ third preference 25 Figure 22 Participants’ communications preferences 26 Figure 23 Intercept survey taking place in Kibble Park, Peninsula Leisure Centre 29

TABLES

Table 1 Reasons behind responses to shared services option 17 Table 2 No change 19 Table 3 Reasons behind responses to amalgamation 21



Fit For the Future Community Engagement Elton Consulting 1

About the engagement activities

This report documents the outcomes of community engagement conducted on behalf of Gosford City

Council to inform its submission for the Fit For the Future local government reform program. The

engagement process was conducted by independent firm Elton Consulting. It was designed to offer a

range of opportunities for community participation and to provide Council with robust results about

community preferences relating to three options for the future of Gosford City Council.

The engagement process included a random sample phone survey, an online survey and a face to

face intercept survey. There was a generally high level of consistency across the results of all three

surveys. The main focus of this report is on the phone survey, as it provides results that are

statistically representative for the wider adult population in Gosford local government area (LGA).

Where relevant, key points of difference are discussed in this document. That is, statistically

significant differences identified through cross tabulation of survey results.

The engagement activities attracted an overall high level of interest, with approximately 1,000 people

taking part in the research. All participants in the phone and intercept surveys were residents of

Gosford LGA, as were the majority of online survey respondents. The research involved residents of all

precincts within Gosford LGA and a wide range of

age groups were represented.

Feedback on the future options for

Gosford City Council

Members of the community were presented with three options for the future of Gosford City Council.

These were described as:

» No change to Gosford City Council

» No change to Gosford City Council but potential shared services with neighbouring councils

» Amalgamation with Wyong Shire Council.

‘No change to Gosford City Council but potential shared services with neighbouring councils’ (hereafter

referred to as ‘Shared services’) was nominated by the majority of respondents as their first or second preference. The next most preferred option was ‘No change’. ‘Amalgamation’ was the third or last

preference overall. These results were broadly consistent across all modes of survey. People who nominated ‘No change’ as their first preference were less likely to be interested in the topic of local

government reform than those who chose ‘Amalgamation’.

Respondents preferred the ‘Shared services’ option as they believed it will result in service

improvements and efficiencies, as well as cost savings. Other reasons for choosing ‘Shared services’ as the preferred option included perceived benefits for Gosford and Wyong areas, a continued focus

on local community issues, needs and identity, and concerns about the amalgamation option. They

also thought the ‘Shared services’ option would provide greater transparency and less bureaucracy. Respondents who did not support this option expressed a number of concerns. These included

potential for less control over local issues and a loss of local focus, as well as the possibility of money and resources being diverted away from local services.

The reasons why respondents preferred ‘No change’ mainly related to keeping things the way they are

and a continued focus on local community issues, needs and identity. There were also concerns about

1 Engagement overview

The majority of respondents nominated no

change to Gosford City Council but potential

shared services with neighbouring councils

as their first preference for the future overall



2 Fit For the Future Community Engagement Elton Consulting

the amalgamation option and for the potential for the alternative options to lead to poorer services.

Respondents who did not support the amalgamation option expressed a number of concerns such as

dissatisfaction with the current situation, desire for a regional focus, and concern that the current

model is inefficient and unsustainable.

The reasons why people preferred the amalgamation option generally focused on perceived benefits

and efficiencies associated with shared resources. Some respondents who chose this option had

positive perceptions of Wyong Shire Council and/or negative perceptions about Gosford City Council.

However, some thought an amalgamation option was a more sustainable model, and would provide a

more regional focus. Respondents who did not support the amalgamation option expressed concerns

included potential for a loss of focus on local community issues and needs, and the potential loss of

local identity. There were also concerns that an amalgamated council would be too large to work

effectively at a local level.

Feedback on local issues

When asked what they value most about the Gosford area, respondents commonly focused on the

natural environment, including access to beaches, parks and open spaces. Gosford was thought to

offer a sense of community, convenience, and an opportunity for residents to enjoy a balanced

lifestyle within close proximity to Sydney. Gosford was regarded as safe and a good place for families

and children.

Participants were also asked about their experiences and perceptions of Council. Gosford was rated

particularly highly for the quality of services it delivers to local residents. However, lower levels of

satisfaction were expressed in relation to the maintenance of local infrastructure.

Future communications

Key considerations for Gosford City Council regarding future communications about the local

government reform program include:

» The majority of people who took part in the phone survey found out about local government

reform through media (TV, radio, newspapers). Media was also nominated by most participants as

the best way for Council to communicate with them in future. Letter, flyers and emails were also

commonly supported channels.

» Levels of interest and awareness local government reform program were higher among older

residents and lower among younger residents. There may be opportunities to raise awareness

through targeted communications focusing on people in the younger age groups (particularly those

aged 18-39 years).

» Just over half of the phone survey respondents had been in contact with Council (other than to pay

their rates) within the last year, but under a third had visited a Customer Service Centre. Most of

these respondents had visited infrequently. This is unsurprising given the high level of long

distance commuters in the Gosford area, many of whom may be time poor. It suggests that digital

and other forms of communication that reach out into the community will be important for ongoing

information sharing and engagement.

» There were mixed views on how well Council consults with the local community. An opportunity

exists for Council to engage with residents of the Gosford LGA who expressed an interest in

participating in further consultation activities.




This report documents the outcomes of the Gosford City Council Fit For the Future community

engagement process. The research results will be used by Council to inform preparation of its Fit For

the Future proposal.

Purpose and objectives of the engagement

Fit For the Future is the NSW Government’s reform program for the local government sector. Under

the program, all councils in NSW are required to submit a detailed proposal by 30 June 2015.

Proposals must demonstrate that councils meet a ‘scale and capacity’ criterion, as well as three

financial criteria defined as ‘sustainability’, ‘effective infrastructure and service management’, and

‘efficiency’. These criteria have been defined by benchmarks set by the Office of Local Government

(OLG) and informed by the review undertaken by the Independent Local Government Review Panel.

The starting point for considering a council proposal is the Panel’s final report, released in October

2013. The Panel gave two options for the Central Coast councils of Gosford and Wyong. The first

option was that Gosford and Wyong amalgamate to form one council with a population of some

390,000 people by 2031. The second option was that the two councils form a multi-function Joint

Organisation with responsibility for strategic functions, including water provision.

Gosford conducted its Fit For the Future community engagement on three options:

» No change to Gosford City Council

» No change to Gosford City Council but potential shared services with neighbouring councils

» Amalgamation with Wyong Shire Council.

Council commissioned Elton Consulting to conduct research on community preferences relating to the

three options, and the drivers behind those preferences. The community engagement was designed to

comply with both intent and the detailed direction provided by the Office of Local Government and the

Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART). Importantly, IPART states that: “We will also

consider how balanced was the information that is provided to the community. That is, whether it

promoted only the benefits or only the costs of a particular option, or instead informed the community

about both the costs and benefits of one or more options.”

The objectives of the engagement included:

» Using a robust, balanced and objective methodology, which is not weighted towards a particular

perspective

» Providing Council with results that are statistically representative of the views of the wider adult

population within the Gosford LGA

» Providing an opportunity for more engaged and passionate community members to provide input

» Reaching out to ‘the silent majority’ who may be less likely to participate in formal consultation

processes

» Supporting engagement with clear communications, so community members understand the

options being considered

» Reporting clearly and rapidly on results, to give Councillors, the Executive Team, staff and the

community a solid understanding of community preferences.

2 Introduction




Engagement approach and methodology

The engagement process for the Fit For the Future program was designed to be robust, balanced and

objective. Community participation in the engagement activities was promoted through the use of

clear communications including the Council website and Gosford Connect newsletter and e-newsletter.

The engagement process involved a:

» random phone survey – to provide Council with robust and statistically representative results

» online survey – to provide an opportunity for all residents to have their say

» face to face intercept survey – to target people who may be less likely to participate in

traditional engagement.

Who participated in the engagement?

There was a high level of participation in Council’s Fit For the Future engagement process with

approximately 1,000 people having their say on the future of the area.

Figure 1 Survey mode

Phone survey

The phone survey was conducted with a random sample of 507 residents of Gosford LGA and provides

results that are statistically representative of the wider adult population of the LGA to within +/-

4.4% at the 95% confidence level.

The phone survey achieved a 43% response rate. Computer Assisted Telephone Interview (CATI) data

was post weighted by age and gender as per the Gosford LGA (consistent with 2011 ABS Census

data).

Almost three quarters of people who took part in the phone survey (72%) expressed an interest in

participating in further consultation activities conducted by Council.

Phone 53% (507)

Online39% (377 )

Face to face8% (80)

Survey mode(n=964)




Figure 2 Interest in participating in further consultation activities

Online survey

The online survey was conducted with a sample of 462 respondents and included 377 valid responses

(that is excluding incomplete responses). The survey was available on Council’s website for a period of

two weeks in June 2015. This opt in survey provides results that are descriptive only, unlike the

random sample phone survey. The online survey results describe the views of participants, but

inferences cannot be made about the views of the wider local population.

Over half of all online survey participants (59%) expressed an interested in taking part in further

consultation activities conducted by Council.

Face to face intercept survey

The face to face intercept survey was conducted with a sample of 80 residents of Gosford LGA. The

survey was conducted by members of the Elton Consulting team on 11 and 12 June 2015 in a range

of locations within Gosford LGA. These were Kibble Park, Erina Library, Erina Fair Shopping Centre,

Gosford Station, Peninsula Leisure Centre, and Fountain Plaza. The survey locations and times were

promoted by Council.

As part of the intercept survey, a flyer promoting the online survey was distributed to people who

were interested in the research, but unable to take part on the spot. Approximately 40 flyers were

distributed during the intercept survey fieldwork. Furthermore, feedback from members of the

community suggests that the engagement process achieved good coverage. Several people who

declined to participate in the intercept survey reported that they had already taken part in either the

phone or online survey.

Yes72%

No28%

Are you happy for Gosford City Council to contact you in the future about further consultation activities?

(n=507)




Who participated in the phone survey?

Figure 3 Connection to Gosford City Council

All phone survey respondents were required to be residents of Gosford LGA. Just under 70% of

respondents also described themselves as a ratepayer. A third reported that they work in Gosford LGA

and just under 10% own or manage a business in the LGA. Councillors and Council employees were

excluded from participating in the phone survey.

69%

33%

9%21%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

Ratepayer in theGosford LGA

Work in theGosford LGA

Owner / manager ofa business in the

Gosford LGA

Other

Which of the following describes you?(n=507, multiple answers encouraged)

3 What we heard: phone survey




Figure 4 Age

The phone survey data was post weighted for age as shown here. Just under a third of participants

were 18-39 years of age.

Figure 5 Precinct

The phone survey involved residents from each of Gosford’s precincts.

18-3932%

40-5935%

60+33%

Age range(n=507)

21%17% 16%

13% 13%8% 7% 6%

0%

10%

20%

30%

Gosfordcentral

NararaValley

Coastal Peninsula WestBrisbane

water

Mountains CoastalHinterland

EastBrisbane

water

Precinct(n=507)




Figure 6 Gender

The phone survey data was post weighted for gender as shown here. The survey sample comprised a

slightly higher proportion of women than men.

Figure 7 Housing tenure

More than three quarters of respondents were home owners or purchasers. Just over one in five

respondents was renting their home. This is broadly consistent with ABS data for Gosford LGA which

indicates 70% of residents own/are purchasing their home and 26% of residents are renting.

Male47%

Female53%

Gender(n=507)

Rent22%

Own/purchasing78%

Do you rent or own your own home?(n=507)




Perspectives and experiences of Gosford LGA

Figure 8 What participants like most about the Gosford area

When asked what they like most about the Gosford area, the most commonly identified responses

were access to beaches, and natural environment. Other aspects of life in Gosford highly valued by

respondents included: parks and open spaces, sense of community, convenience, balanced lifestyle,

access to Sydney without living in it, a safe place to live, a good place for families and children, public

transport, and peace and quiet. Other responses included: affordable housing and detailed comments

about the quality of the natural environment.

Familiarity with Councillors and Council services

Figure 9 Familiarity with Gosford City’s current mayor

Just under 40% of respondents were able to correctly identify Gosford City Council’s Mayor. Another

5% of respondents thought they knew the name of the Mayor – including a small number who named

the Mayor of Wyong Shire Doug Eaton.

9%

8%

9%

11%

15%

16%

18%

19%

23%

24%

44%

45%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50%

Other

Peace & Quiet

Public Transport

Good place for families and children

Safe place to live

Access to Sydney without living in it

Balanced lifestyle

Convenience

Sense of community

Parks and open spaces

Natural environment

Access to beaches

What do you like most about the area where you live? (n=507, multiple answers allowed)

57%

38%

4%1%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

No Yes - names LawrieMcKinna

Yes - names other Yes - names DougEaton

Do you know the name of Gosford City's current mayor?(n=507)




Figure 10 Visits to Gosford City Council’s Customer Service Centres

Just under a third of survey respondents (30%) had visited a Gosford City Council Customer Service

Centre within the last year. Of these, around 15% had only visited once. The rest had visited more

frequently.

Figure 11 Contact with Gosford City Council

Over 50% of respondents had contacted Gosford City Council within the last year, other than to pay

their rates. This demonstrates the higher level of contact with Council through methods other than

face to face.

2%6% 6%

15%

70%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

At least once amonth

Three or fourtimes

A couple of timesa year

Once a year orless

Never

In the last year, how often have you visited a Gosford City Council Customer Service Centre?

(n=507)

Yes53%

No47%

In the last year, have you contacted Gosford City Council for any reason other than paying rates?

(n=507)




Figure 12 Contact with Gosford City Council’s elected Councillors / Mayor

Fewer than 10% of the phone survey respondents had contacted Gosford’s elected Councillors or

Mayor over the last year.

Satisfaction with Council services

Figure 13 Satisfaction with Gosford City Council services

Gosford was rated particularly highly for the quality of services it delivers to local residents with 49%

of survey respondents rating this as good or very good.

Yes8%

No92%

In the last year, have you contacted Gosford City Council's elected Councillors or the Mayor?

(n=507)

5%

18%

10%

15%

5%

13%

25%

17%

16%

7%

46%

29%

37%

32%

38%

13%

21%

18%

26%

38%

4%

6%

7%

7%

11%

20%

1%

11%

3%

1%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Its financial strength

Its maintenance of local infrastructure

The way it carries out its regulatory functions

The way it consults with the community

The quality of services it delivers to local residents

Overall, how would you rate Gosford City Council on the following?(n=507)

1 Very poor 2 Poor 3 Neutral 4 Good 5 Very good NA




There were mixed views expressed in relation to

‘community consultation’. While 33% of

respondents rated this as good or very good,

another 31% rated it as poor or very poor, and the

remainder were undecided.

Lower levels of satisfaction with Council were

expressed in relation to its ‘maintenance of local infrastructure’ with 43% of respondents rating this as

poor or very poor.

There were also mixed views expressed in relation to ‘regulatory functions’, with 25% of respondents

rating this as good or very good and 27% of respondents rating this poor or very poor. Another 48%

respondents were neutral or undecided on the subject.

The majority of respondents (66%) were largely neutral and or undecided on Council’s ‘financial

strength’. Another 17% rated this good or very good and the remaining 18% rated this poor or very

poor.

Analysis of the survey data by precinct demonstrates that residents of the Mountains precinct were

the least satisfied of all residents across the Gosford LGA in terms of all aspects of Council services in

the survey question. That is: the quality of Council services, its financial strength, maintenance of local infrastructure, the way Council consults with the community and the way it carries out its regulatory

functions.

Among these residents, maintenance of local infrastructure attracted a particularly low level of

satisfaction. Analysis of the data shows a significant difference in satisfaction levels with local

infrastructure maintenance between the Mountains precinct (mean score of 2.18) and the East

Brisbane water and Gosford Central areas (mean scores of 2.96 and 2.93 respectively).

Analysis of the survey data also suggests that people who did the survey online were more likely to

regard ‘the quality of services Gosford City Council delivers to local residents’ as poor or very poor

(21%) than those who took part in the phone survey (12%). This indicates a lower level of

satisfaction with Council services among residents who opted into the engagement process, compared

with those who were part of the random sample phone survey.

Figure 14 Kibble Park

Residents of the Mountains precinct were

the least satisfied of all residents across the

Gosford LGA in terms of Council services




Awareness and interest in local government reform program

Figure 15 Awareness of the local government reform program

Just over half of all respondents were aware of the Fit For the Future local government reform

program prior to taking part in the research.

Older people were more likely to be aware of the Fit For the Future local government reform program than younger people. Analysis of the data shows that 18-39 year olds were less likely to be aware of

the local government reform program prior to taking part in the research (26% were aware) than people aged 60 years plus (71% were aware).

People who were aware of the local government reform program prior to the research were more

likely to nominate ‘Amalgamation’ as their most preferred option (65%), than they were to favour ‘No

change’ (41%) as their preferred option.

Unsurprisingly, higher levels of awareness were also associated with the online survey, rather than the

phone survey. That is, 67% of people who did the online survey were aware of the local government

reform program prior to participating in the research, as compared with 53% of people who took part

in the phone survey. This demonstrates the value of using a random sampling approach to reach out

to the ‘silent majority’ – people who are less likely to self-nominate or opt in to formal consultation

activities.

Yes52%

No48%

Prior to this call, were you aware of this local government reform program?

(n=507)

Older people were more likely to be aware

of the Fit For the Future local government

reform program than younger people




Figure 16 Where did you hear about the local government reform program?

The vast majority of respondents had heard about the local government reform program through the

media. Other channels nominated by respondents included word of mouth, social media, local councils

and the internet.

Figure 17 Interest in local government reform

More than half of all respondents reported being interested in local government reform (59%). Of

these, 12% were very interested.

Older people stated that they are more likely to be interested in local government reform than

younger people. While 48% of 18-39 year olds said they were interested in this topic, 69% of people

aged 60 years plus said they were interested.

3%

1%

1%

3%

4%

12%

87%

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

Other

Internet

Gosford City Council (eg Mayor, website

Wyong Shire Council (eg Mayor, website,

Social media

Friends/Neighbours/Word of mouth

Media (eg newspaper, TV, radio)

Where did you hear about it (local government reform program)? (n=266, multiple answers allowed)

12%

47%

33%

7%0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

Very interested Quite interested Not very interested Not at all interested

How interested are you in the subject of local government reform?(n=507)




Perspectives on the three options proposed for Gosford City Council

Figure 18 ‘Shared services’ was most preferred by survey respondents overall

Of the three potential options ‘Shared services’ was most preferred by survey respondents overall.

This option was rated as the first preference by 38% of respondents, second preference by 47% and third preference by 6%.

The ‘No change’ option was the next most preferred option overall. This option was rated as the first

preference by 30% of respondents, second

preference by 22% and third preference by 39%.

The third most preferred, or least preferred, of the

options was ‘Amalgamation with Wyong Shire

Council’. This option was rated as the first

preference by 25% of respondents, second

preference by 20% and third preference by 44%.

People who nominated ‘No change’ as their first preference were less likely to be interested in the

topic of local government reform than those who chose ‘Amalgamation’. Just over half of those who

chose ‘No change’ as their first preference (57%) reported being interested in the topic of local

government reform, compared with 65% of those who supported ‘Amalgamation’ as their first

preference.

Interestingly men were more likely to support ‘Amalgamation’ as their first preference than women.

There was a significant difference in the perspectives of these participants, with 34% of men

supporting ‘Amalgamation’ as their preferred option compared with 18% of women.

6%

25%

30%

38%

11%

20%

22%

47%

11%

44%

39%

6%

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

Unsure/no idea

Wyong/Gosford amalgamation

No change

Shared services

Gosford City Council would like to know in what orderyou prefer the following three options for its future?

(n=507)Most preferred Next preferred Least preferred

People who nominated ‘No change’ as their

first preference were less likely to be

interested in the topic of local government

reform than those who chose

‘Amalgamation’

Of the three potential options ‘Shared

services’ was most preferred by survey

respondents overall




Reasons behind community preferences

Participants provided the following reasons for selecting shared services as their first, second or least preferred option. A selection of indicative quotes is

provided on the following page.

Table 1 Reasons behind responses to shared services option

Most preferred Second most preferred Least preferred

The reasons provided by phone survey

respondents for identifying this option as their

first preference were:

» Would lead to better services / efficiencies

(18%)

» Shared services can offer cost savings (13%)

» Beneficial to both GCC and WSC (9%)

» Shared services should still enable a focus on

local community issues, needs, and identity

(5%)

» Other (5%)

» Avoids amalgamation (4%)

» Best of both worlds / good compromise (2%)



second preference were:

» Avoids amalgamation (12%)

» Shared services can offer cost savings (9%)

» Best of both worlds / good compromise (9%)

» Other (8%)

» Would lead to better services / efficiencies

(7%)

» Beneficial to both GCC and WSC (6%)

» Shared services should still enable a focus on

local community issues, needs, and identity

(3%)

» Greater transparency / less bureaucracy

(2%).



third preference were:

» Unsure / no comment (3%)

» Loss of control / need to retain local focus

(2%)

» Money / services / resources diverted (1%)

» Other (1%).




Shared services may be more cost efficient whilst Gosford Council stays independent. I believe

residents get better representation this way.”

Shared services can reduce costs while keeping individual identity.”

Council is not geared up to handle larger areas without compromising the people it currently

serves. But sharing of services and resources removes the overall financial and infrastructure burden from councils and it gives each other access to equipment and manpower when it requires it.”

Gosford and Wyong should work closely together but remain separate entities and councils to

ensure closer community focus.”

Unfortunately Wyong Shire is our poorer cousin. I think Wyong would benefit but Gosford

would suffer from a merger.”

The current council cannot maintain current infrastructure properly. The roads of the Gosford area are in disrepair… Sharing services with another council would hopefully bring about some

good changes to the services, or lack of services, Gosford City Council offers.”

Shared services might be useful to the two districts.”




Table 2 No change

Participants provided the following reasons for selecting ‘No change’ as their first, second or least preferred option. A selection of indicative quotes is






» Keep things the way they are / retain focus on

local community issues, needs, identity (15%)

» Would lead to poorer services (7%)

» Don’t want to link with WSC / dislike

amalgamation option (6%)

» Retain existing size / GCC already covers a

large area (5%)

» GCC does a good job (5%)

» Other (5%).




» Don’t want to link with WSC / dislike

amalgamation option (11%)

» Keep things the way they are / retain focus on

local community issues, needs, identity (9%)

» Retain existing size / GCC already covers a

large area (4%)

» Other (4%)

» GCC does a good job (3%).




» Change is good / GCC needs to change (18%)

» Dissatisfied with current Council/GCC requires

improvement (13%)


» Too many councils / current model is not

efficient (5%)

» Would save money (2%)

» There should be a regional focus (2%)

» Other (2%)

» Improved services (1%)

» Current model is not sustainable (1%).




The Central Coast is a huge land area with vastly differing "pockets" of residents with different

needs - the Gosford LGA tends towards being a more mature area in terms of new home growth, for example, while parts of the Wyong LGA are being developed aggressively. Joining the two councils may

mean that the needs of the different types of groups are not met as well.”

Gosford Council area is too distant from neighbouring councils, and the challenges it faces are too different to the Wyong Shire.”

Keep things centralised and local. Fair spread of resources [should be] kept with Gosford

council area. Worried about uneven funding if amalgamation occurred.”

We need to keep our own identity. Gosford has enough shared services with Wyong. State

Government should not dictate and force amalgamation. If amalgamated the area would be far too big, and the population would be too big to manage, especially if the development proposed goes

ahead. Gosford Council don't listen to residents well now, so to have an even bigger area with more

population to listen to / consult would be impossible.”

Amalgamation would in my opinion stop [a] focus on local issues and [I am] also worried

about the impact it would have on jobs in the LGA.”




Table 3 Reasons behind responses to amalgamation

Participants provided the following reasons for selecting ‘Amalgamation’ as their first, second or least preferred option. A selection of indicative quotes is






» Share resources / general benefits /

efficiencies (10%)

» Like WSC / Dislike GCC (8%)

» Amalgamation can offer cost savings (7%)

» Amalgamation would offer a regional focus

(5%)

» Less bureaucracy / Councillors (4%)

» More sustainable (3%)

» Would lead to improved services (2%)

» Other (2%).




» Share resources / general benefits /

efficiencies (7%)

» Amalgamation can offer cost savings (6%)

» Amalgamation would offer a regional focus

(4%)

» Other (4%)

» Would lead to improved services (2%)

» Like WSC / Dislike GCC (2%)

» Less bureaucracy / Councillors (2%).




» Too big / bureaucratic / too far away / the

area is too large to be run by one stand-alone

council (21%)

» Amalgamation won’t offer benefits or

efficiencies (13%)

» Will result in fewer services for residents of

Gosford LGA (7%)

» Don’t like / trust WSC (6%)

» Other (6%)

» Need to retain focus on local community

issues, needs, identity (5%)

» GCC and WSC have very different needs and

resources (5%)


» Lose independence (1%).




Surely this will save money with duplicated services being removed.”

I think it is silly that the Central Coast is split into two Shires. I think if we want to boost tourism and infrastructure that make the coast the best it can be, the two councils need to merge.”

Efficiency, resources, funding benefits and reduced duplication.”

The Central Coast should be managed as a whole to ensure consistency across the region.”

If it saves rate payer money and allows more money to be invested into the community then I

am happy for this.”

I believe that we should have less councils and so the Central Coast should be one mega Council perhaps even [including] parts of Lake Macquarie. I believe it would be more sustainable fiscally,

financially and socially.”

The whole country is over governed. This area doesn't need two councils. Wouldn't it be

more efficient having only one?”

I think that it will provide a great, fresh sense [for] both councils and will help combine the area of the Central Coast. At the moment it feels like it is divided.”




Figure 19 Reasons behind participants’ first preference

2%

2%

3%

4%

5%

7%

8%

10%

1%

4%

5%

5%

6%

7%

15%

2%

4%

5%

5%

9%

13%

18%

0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25%

Other (Option 3)

Would lead to improved services

More sustainable

Less bureaucracy/councillors

Amalgamation would offer a regional focus

Amalgamation can offer cost savings

Like Wyong Council/Dislike Gosford Council

Share resources/general benefits/efficiencies

Unsure (Option 1)

Other (Option 1)

Council does a good job

Retain existing size/GCC already covers a large area

Don't want to link with Wyong/DOn't like amalgamation option

Would lead to poorer services

Keep things the way they are/retain focus on local community issues, needs, identity

Best of both worlds/good compromise

Avoids amalgamation

Shared services should still enable a focus on local community issues, needs, identity

Other (Option 2)

Beneficial to both councils

Shared services can offer cost savings

Would lead to better services/efficiencies

Can you explain why you most prefer your chosen option?(n=464, multiple answers allowed)


Shared services

No change




Figure 20 Reasons behind participants’ second preference

0%

2%

2%

2%

4%

4%

6%

7%

0%

3%

4%

4%

9%

11%

2%

3%

6%

7%

8%

9%

9%

12%

0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25%

More sustainable

Less bureaucracy/councillors

Like Wyong Council/Dislike Gosford Council

Would lead to improved services

Other (Option 3)



Share resources/general benefits/efficiencies

Would lead to poorer services

Council does a good job

Other (Option 1)

Retain existing size/GCC already covers a large area

Keep things the way they are/retain focus on local community issues, needs, identity

Don't want to link with Wyong/Don't like amalgamation option

Greater transparency/less bureaucracy

Shared services should still enable a focus on local community issues, needs, identity

Beneficial to both councils

Would lead to better services/efficiencies

Other (Option 2)

Best of both worlds/good compromise


Avoids amalgamation

Can you explain why you this is your second preference?(n=415, multiple answers allowed)

Wyong/Gosfordamalgamation

Shared services

No change




Figure 21 Reasons behind participants’ third preference

Please note that 0% indicates where figure is less than 1%.

1%

1%

1%

2%

3%

6%

1%

1%

2%

2%

2%

5%

7%

13%

18%

4%

5%

5%

6%

7%

13%

21%

0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25%

Other (Option 2)

Money/services/resources diverted

Lose independence

Loss of control/need to retain local focus

Unsure/no comment (option 2)

Other (option 3)

Current model is not sustainable

Improved services

There should be a regional focus

Would save money

Other (Option 1)

Too many councils/current model is not efficient

Unsure/no comment (Option 1)

Dissatisfied with current Council/GCC requires improvement

Change is good/GCC needs to change

Unsure/no comment (Option 3)

Gosford and Wyong have very different needs and resources

Need to retain focus on local community issues, needs, identity

Don't like/trust Wyong Council

Will result in fewer services for residents of Gosford LGA

Amalgamation won't offer benefits or efficiencies

Too big/bureaucratic/too far away/the area is too large to be run by one stand-alone council

Can you explain why you least prefer this chosen option?(n=438, multiple answers allowed)

Wyong/Gosfordamalga-mation

No change

Shared services




Communications preferences

Figure 22 Participants’ communications preferences

Participant preferences for future communications about the Fit For the Future local government

reforms focused on use of media (nominated by 51% of respondents), letters (43%), and

flyers/brochures (29%). Email (19%), Council’s website (9%), social media (7%) and community

meetings (5%) were also suggested. Other suggestions included: a newsletter or flyer to accompany

the quarterly rates notice; promotion using posters; promotion in libraries.

As noted previously in this report, 72% of phone survey participants expressed an interest in taking part in further consultation activities conducted by Gosford City Council.

5%

1%

2%

2%

3%

5%

7%

9%

19%

29%

43%

54%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60%

Other

Via text message

Phone

Gosford Connect e-newsletter

Community noticeboard

Council run meetings/forums

Social media

Via Council website

Email

Flyer or Brochure

Letter

Media ( TV, Radio, Newspaper)

What do you believe would be the best ways for Gosford City Council to communicate information about the local government reforms to residents?

(n=507, multiple answers allowed)




Online survey and face to face intercept survey

The online survey provided an opportunity for more engaged and passionate community members to

provide input to the engagement process. The face to face intercept survey was used to reach out to

‘the silent majority’ of people who may be less likely to participate in formal consultation processes –

by going to the community. It should be noted that the results of these sample surveys are

descriptive. That is, they describe the views of participants, but are not statistically representative of

the wider adult population of the LGA.

Who participated in the online and intercept surveys?

Age and gender

Phone survey data has been post weighted for age and gender as shown below. However, online and

face to face intercept survey data has not been post weighted. The majority of respondents in both

the online and face to face surveys were 40 to 59 years of age.

32%36%

28%

36%

47%41%

32.9%

17.6%

31.0%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

Phone Online Face to face

Age breakdown by Survey method(n=953)

18-39 40-59 60+

4 What we heard: online and face to face intercept surveys




A slightly higher proportion of men participated in the online survey, and a higher proportion of

women participated in the face to face intercept survey.

Figure 23 Intercept survey taking place in Kibble Park, Peninsula Leisure Centre

Perspectives on Gosford LGA and Gosford City Council

There was a generally high level of consistency in the results of the phone, face to face and online

surveys. However, a number of significant differences were identified through the data analysis. These

were:

» Online survey participants (67%) were more likely to be aware of the local government reform

program than phone survey respondents (53%).

» Online respondents were far more likely to be interested in local government reform (86% were

either very or quite interested) than either phone survey respondents (59%) or intercept survey

respondents (61%).

47%56%

41%

53%44%

59%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

Phone Online Face to face

Gender by survey method(n=955)

Male Female




» Online survey respondents were less satisfied with the quality of services Council delivers to local

residents, than those who took part in the phone survey – with 21% of online respondents rating

service delivery as poor or very poor, compared with 12% of phone survey respondents.

» Intercept survey respondents were less satisfied with the way Council consults with the community

and undertakes its regulatory functions – with 51% of intercept survey respondents rating this as

poor or very poor, compared with 32% of those who took part in the phone survey.

Perspectives on the three options proposed for Gosford City Council

Feedback in response to the three options proposed for Gosford City Council was generally consistent

across all survey modes. The results of the online survey were slightly different to those from the

phone and intercept surveys – in relation to second and third preferences. However it should be noted

that the difference between second and third preferences only came down to a small number of

responses.

The responses indicated that:

» ‘Shared services’ was the most preferred option across all survey modes. A significantly higher

proportion of intercept survey respondents chose this option as their first preference (46%),

compared with the phone survey (38%).

» ‘No change’ was the second most preferred option in the phone and intercept surveys, but third in

the online survey

» ‘Amalgamation’ was the third most preferred

option in the phone and intercept surveys, but

second in the online survey. Intercept survey

respondents were more likely to choose

Amalgamation as their third / last preference

(55.7%), compared with phone survey

respondents (44%).

For further details of survey results see Appendix C.

Online survey participants were more

likely than those who took part in the

phone survey to be: both aware of and

interested in the local government reform

program; and less satisfied with the

quality of services Council delivers to local

residents.




Appendices






Version 4.1 - Gosford_Council_FFF - Last modified:2/06/2015 3:05:29 PM

Phone survey tool_Version 4.1 Gosford_Council_FFF

Last modified:2/06/2015 3:05:29 PM

Q1. Hi my name is (name) and I'm calling from Jetty Research on behalf of Gosford City Council.

Council is currently conducting a survey of local residents regarding an important community

issue. You have been randomly selected to participate in this survey, which should take only

10 minutes to complete. We are not trying to sell anything, and any answers you provide

would be confidential. Would you be willing to assist Council by completing a brief research

survey this afternoon/evening?

Must be aged 18 or over. Offer a callback if required. If they don't wish to participate, let them

know they can do the survey online at www.gosford.nsw.gov.au

Yes 1

No 555 Q1

Answer If Attribute "No" from Q1 is SELECTED

Q2. Thank you for your time. Have a great afternoon/evening.

End

Q3. Thanks, that's greatly appreciated. I just have a few quick qualifying questions. Firstly can

you please confirm that you live in the Gosford City Council Area?

Must live in Gosford LGA

Yes 1

No 555 Q3

Answer If Attribute "No" from Q3 is SELECTED

Q4. I'm sorry but you must live in the Gosford City Council area to participate in this survey. Thank

you for your time.

End

Q5. And are you a Councillor or Council employee?

Immediate family do not qualify

Yes 1

No 555 Q5

Answer If Attribute "Yes" from Q5 is SELECTED




Q6. I'm sorry in that case you don't qualify to participate in this survey. Thank you for your time.

End

Q7. And which suburb do you live in?

Select suburb or closest to

Avoca Beach 1

Bar Point 2

Bensville 3

Blackwall 4

Booker Bay 5

Bouddi 6

Box Head 7

Calga 8

Central Mangrove 9

Cheero Point 10

Cogra Bay 11

Copacabana 12

Daleys Point 13

Dangar Island 14

Davistown 15

East Gosford 16

Empire Bay 17

Erina Heights 18

Erina, 19

Ettalong Beach 20

Forresters Beach 21

Glenworth Valley 22

Gosford 23

Green Point 24

Greengrove 25

Gunderman 26

Hardys Bay 27

Hawkesbury River 28

Holgate 29

Horsefield Bay 30

Kariong 31

Killcare 32

Killcare Heights 33

Kincumber 34

Kincumber South 35

Koolewong 36

Kulnura 37

Lisarow 38

Little Wobby 39




Lower Mangrove 40

MacMasters Beach 41 Q7

Mangrove Creek 42

Mangrove Mountain 43

Marlow 44

Matcham 45

Milsons Passage 46

Mooney Mooney 47

Mooney Mooney Creek 48

Mount White 49

Mt Elliot 50

Narara 51

Niagara Park 52

North Avoca 53

North Gosford 54

Patonga 55

Pearl Beach 56

Peats Ridge 57

Phegans Bay 58

Picketts Valley 59

Point Clare 60

Point Frederick 61

Pretty Beach 62

Saratoga 63

Somersby 64

Spencer 65

Springfield 66

St Huberts Island 67

Tascott 68

Ten Mile Hollow 69

Terrigal 70

Umina Beach 71

Upper Mangrove 72

Wagstaffe 73

Wamberal 74

Wendoree Park 75

West Gosford 76

Wondabyne 77

Woy Woy 78

Woy Woy Bay 79

Wyoming 80

Yattalunga 81

Q8. May I have your first name for the survey?

Type NA if not willing to give name

Q8




Q9. Thanks [Q8]. To start things off, which of the following describes you?

PROMPTED - tick any that apply. Only use OTHER if none apply

Work in the Gosford LGA 1 Q9_1

Ratepayer in the Gosford LGA 2 Q9_2

Owner / manager of a business in the Gosford LGA 3 Q9_3

Other 4 Q9_4

Q10. What do you like most about the area where you live?

UNPROMPTED - tick up to 3

Access to Sydney without living in it 1 Q10_1

Natural environment 2 Q10_2

Great Council 3 Q10_3

Public Transport 4 Q10_4

Access to beaches 5 Q10_5

Good place for families and children 6 Q10_6

Safe place to live 7 Q10_7

Sense of community 8 Q10_8

Parks and open spaces 9 Q10_9

Balanced lifestyle 10 Q10_10

OTHER Q10_O

Go to Q12

Q11. (DELETED) Where do you usually go to undertake each of the following activities?

PROMPTED

Gosford Wyong Newcast

le

Sydney Other NA

Shopping 1 556 2 3 4 555 Q11_1

Work 1 556 2 3 4 555 Q11_2

Leisure activities (e.g. exercise, sport) 1 556 2 3 4 555 Q11_3

Health services 1 556 2 3 4 555 Q11_4

Education 1 556 2 3 4 555 Q11_5

Q12. Now [Q8], Do you know the name of Gosford City's current mayor?

TBA




Yes - names Lawrie McKinna 1

Yes - names Doug Eaton 2

Yes - names other 3 Q12

No 555

Q13. In the last year, how often have you visited a Gosford City Council Customer Service Centre?

Either Gosford, Woy Woy or Erina. PROMPTED except unsure

At least once a month 1

Three or four times 2

A couple of times a year 3

Once a year or less 4 Q13

Never 5

Unsure 666

Q14. In the last year, have you contacted Gosford City Council for any reason other than paying

rates?

UNPROMPTED

Yes 1

No 555 Q14

Q15. In the last year, have you contacted Gosford City Council's elected Councillors or the Mayor?

UNPROMPTED

Yes 1

No 555 Q15

Q16. Overall, how would you rate Gosford City Council on the following? We'll use a 1-5 sliding

scale, where 1 means you think this is very poor, 3 is neutral and 5 means you think it's very

good.

PROMPTED

1 Very

poor

2 3

Neutral

4 5 Very

good

NA

The quality of services it delivers to local residents 1 2 3 4 5 555 Q16_1

Its financial strength 1 2 3 4 5 555 Q16_2

Its maintenance of local infrastructure 1 2 3 4 5 555 Q16_3

The way it consults with the community 1 2 3 4 5 555 Q16_4

The way it carries out its regulatory functions (e.g.

processing development applications, parking controls,

dog management)

1 2 3 4 5 555 Q16_5




Q17. [Q8], as you may know, the NSW Government is looking at way that Councils can better

serve their communities and be sustainable for the long term. This includes asking Councils to

consider voluntary mergers and other reforms. Prior to this call, were you aware of this local

government reform program?

UNPROMPTED

Yes 1

No 555 Q17

Q18. Where did you hear about it?

Answer If Attribute "Yes" from Q17 is SELECTED

UNPROMPTED- tick any that apply

Gosford City Council (eg Mayor, website, other

communication)

2 Q18_1

Wyong Shire Council (eg Mayor, website, other

communication)

3 Q18_2

Friends/Neighbours/Word of mouth 4 Q18_3

Social media 5 Q18_4

Media (eg newspaper, TV, radio) 6 Q18_5

Internet 7 Q18_6

OTHER Q18_O

Q19. How interested are you in the subject of local government reform?

PROMPTED

Very interested 1

Quite interested 2

Not very interested 3 Q19

Not at all interested 4

Go to Q29

Q20. (DELETED) Gosford City Council would like to hear your views on three options for its future.

There are: .Option 1: No change Option 2: No change to structure, but some changes to

services and improvements to infrastructure; Option 3: Amalgamation with Wyong Shire

Council..The next few questions will focus on each of these three options. .Under Option

1,Gosford City Council would remain a stand alone Council. Council services such as waste

and recycling, Libraries and community events would be provided at a similar level, and local

infrastructure such as roads, footpaths and parks would be maintained at a similar level.




Q21. (DELETED) What do you see at the main advantages of this option?

Q21

Q22. (DELETED) What do you see the main disadvantages of this option?

Q22

Q23. (DELETED) Option 2: No change to structure, some changes to services and improvements

to infrastructure. Gosford City Council would remain a stand alone council. There would be

some changes to the way in which Council services are provided, including working more

closely with other councils. There would be some improvement to the maintenance of local

infrastructure. It is likely there would be some increased costs to ratepayers and the

community


Q24

Q25. (DELETED) What do you see at the main disadvantages of this option?

Q25

Q26. (DELETED) Option 3: Amalgamation with Wyong Shire Council. In this option, Gosford City

Council would amalgamate with Wyong Shire Council. It is likely there would be some

changes to the way in which Council services are provided. It is likely that local infrastructure

would be maintained at a similar level. It is likely there would be some increased costs to

ratepayers and the community


Q27

Q28. (DELETED) What do you see the main disadvantages of this option?

Q28




Q29. Now [Q8], Gosford City Council would like to know in what order you prefer the following

three options for its future. The three options are: -

Option 1- No change to Gosford City Council

Option 2 - No change to Gosford City Council but potential shared services with neighbouring

councils

Option 3 - Amalgamation with Wyong Council. -

Which of these three is your most preferred option?

PROMPTED except unsure. Check that this is what they meant

Option 1 (no change) 1

Option 2 (shared services) 2

Option 3 (amalgamation with Wyong) 3 Q29

Unsure/no idea 4

Q30. And which of these three is your next preferred option?





Unsure/no idea 4

Q31. And which of these three is your LEAST preferred option?





Unsure/no idea 4




Q32. Can you explain why you most prefer [Q29]?

Do not answer If Attribute "Unsure/no idea" from Q29 is SELECTED

PROBE

Q32

Q33. And can you explain why you next prefer [Q30]?


Q33

Q32. Can you explain why you LEAST prefer [Q31]?


PROBE

Q32

Q35. What do you believe would be the best ways for Gosford City Council to communicate

information about the local government reforms to residents?

UNPROMPTED - tick any that apply

Via Council website 1 Q35_1

Via text message 2 Q35_2

Ringing Council 3 Q35_3

Letter 4 Q35_4

Via waste services guide or flyer 5 Q35_5

Community noticeboard 6 Q35_6

Advertising in the local paper 7 Q35_7

Gosford Connect e-newsletter 8 Q35_8

OTHER Q35_O

Q36. Just a few quick question and we're finished. Do you rent or own your own home?

UNPROMPTED

Rent 1

Own/purchasing 2 Q36




Q37. And would your age range be between?

PROMPTED

18-29 1

30-39 2

40-49 3

50-59 4 Q37

60-69 5

70+ 6

Q38. Gender?

Don't ask

Male 1

Female 2 Q38

Q39. Are you happy for Gosford City Council to contact you in the future about further consultation

activities?

Expressions of interest

Yes 1

No 555 Go to Q41 Q39

Q40. Great! I just need to take your details so Council can contact you at a later date. Firstly may I

have your:

If no email type postal address. If necessary, assure respondent that this information will not

be passed onto any third parties, and will be kept separate from their survey responses.

Name 1 Q40_1_1

Surname 2 Q40_1_2

Email 3 Q40_1_3

Daytime phone 4 Q40_1_4

Q41. That's the end of the survey. Gosford City Council greatly appreciates your time and

feedback. Did you have any questions before we finish? Thank you for your time and have a

great afternoon/evening.

End



Gosford City Council is keen to hear your views about the future of our local government area.Your views, along with those of other community members, will be an important input to Council’ssubmission to the NSW Government's Fit for the Future program.

To enable Council to submit its proposal to the Fit for the Future program by the end of June, thissurvey will close on Tuesday 16 June 2015.

Introduction

Gosford City Council: Community Survey - Local Government Reform

Section 1: About you


1. Do you live within the Gosford Local Government Area (LGA)?

Yes

No

1




2. Which suburb do you live in?

3. Which of the following describes you? (Please tick all that apply)

Resident in the Gosford LGA

Ratepayer in the Gosford LGA

Owner / manager of a business in the Gosford LGA

Work in the Gosford LGA

Councillor at Gosford City Council

Employee at Gosford City Council

Other (please specify)

4. What is your gender?

Male

Female

Other

5. Which of the following age ranges do you fall into?

Under 18

18-29

30-39

40-49

50-59

60-69

70 and over

2



6. Do you rent or own your home?

Rent

Own / purchasing


7. What do you like most about the area where you live? Please choose up to three.

Natural environment

Access to beaches

Sense of community

Good place for families and children

Balanced lifestyle

Parks and open space

Great Council

Access to Sydney without living in it

Safe place to live

Public transport


8. Where do you usually go to undertake each of the following activities?

Gosford Wyong Newcastle Sydney NA

Shopping

Work

Leisure activities (eg cinema, dining)

Recreation activities (eg exercise, sport)

Health services

Education

Other (please describe if you answered 'other' for any of the above)

3



Section 2: Contact with Council


9. Do you know the name of Gosford City's current Mayor?

10. In the last year, how often have you visited a Gosford City Council Customer Service Centre (Gosford,Woy Woy or Erina)?

At least once a month

Three or four times

A couple of times

Once

Never

Unsure

11. In the last year, have you contacted Gosford City Council for any reason, other than paying rates?

Yes

No

12. In the last year, have you contacted any of Gosford City Council's elected Councillors or the Mayor?

Yes

No

4



Section 3: Satisfaction with Council


13. Overall, how would you rate Gosford City Council on the following?

Very poor PoorNeither good

nor poor Good Very good

The quality and delivery of services for localresidents




The way it carries out its regulatory functions (e.g.processing Development Applications, parkingcontrols, dog management)

As you may know, the NSW Government is looking at ways that councils can better serve theircommunities and be sustainable for the long term. This includes asking councils to considervoluntary mergers and other reforms.

Section 4: Local government reform program


5



14. Prior to this survey, were you aware of this local government reform program?

Yes

No


15. Where did you hear about the NSW Government's local government reform program? Please tick allthat apply.

Gosford City Council (e.g. Mayor, website, other communication)

Wyong Shire Council (e.g. Mayor, website, other communication)

Friends / neighbours / word of mouth

Social media

Media (e.g. newspaper, radio)

Internet


16. How interested are you in the subject of local government reform?

Very interested

Quite interested

Not very interested

Not at all interested

6




Gosford City Council would like to hear your views on three options for its future. These are:

Option 1: No change to Gosford City CouncilOption 2: No change to Gosford City Council but potential shared services with neighbouring councilsOption 3: Amalgamation with Wyong Shire Council

The next few questions will focus on these three options.


* 17. Thinking about the three options, which is your preferred option / first preference?

Option 1: No change to Gosford City Council

Option 2: No change to Gosford City Council but potential shared services with neighbouring councils

Option 3: Amalgamation with Wyong Shire Council

* 18. Please tell us why you chose that option as your first preference.

7



* 19. Which option is your second preference?




* 20. Please tell us why you chose that option as your second preference.

* 21. Which option is your third preference?




* 22. Please tell us why you chose that option as your third preference.

Section 5: Communicating with you


23. How did you find out about this survey? Please tick all that apply.

Word of mouth

Gosford City Council social media pages (Facebook / Twitter)


Gosford Connect newspaper insert

Phone survey

Face to face survey


8



24. What do you believe would be the best ways for Gosford City Council to communicate informationabout the local government reforms to residents? Please tick all that apply.

Word of mouth



Facebook and Twitter

Letterbox flyer


25. Are you happy for Gosford City Council to contact you in the future about further consultationactivities?

Yes

No


26. If yes, please provide your name, email and phone numberContact name:

Contact email:

Daytime phone:

9



Thank you for taking the time to complete this survey.

Thank you


10



Do you have 5 minutes to take part in a Gosford City Council survey about the future of your local governmentarea? Your feedback will be an important input to Council's submission to the NSW Government's Fit for theFuture program.

Introduction

Section 1: About you

1. Can I start by asking, do you live in the Gosford LGA?

Yes

No

(If no) Unfortunately, we're particularly keen to talk to people who live in Gosford today. Thanks for your time and enjoy the rest of yourday.

2. Are you a Councillor or employee at Gosford City Council?

Yes

No

(If yes) Unfortunately, we're keen to talk to residents rather than Council employees or Councillors, but thanks for your time and enjoythe rest of your day [Hand flyer for online survey].

Section 3: Satisfaction with Council

3. Overall, how would you rate Gosford City Council on the following?

Very poor PoorNeither good

nor poor Good Very good

The quality and delivery of services for localresidents




The way it carries out its regulatory functions (e.g.processing Development Applications, parkingcontrols, dog management)

As you may know, the NSW Government is looking at ways that councils can better serve their communities

Section 4: Local government reform program

1



and be sustainable for the long term. This includes asking councils to consider voluntary mergers and otherreforms.

4. Prior to this survey, were you aware of this local government reform program?

Yes

No

5. How interested are you in the subject of local government reform?

Very interested

Quite interested

Not very interested


Gosford City Council would like to hear your views on three options for its future. These are:

Option 1: No change to Gosford City CouncilOption 2: No change to Gosford City Council but potential shared services with neighbouring councilsOption 3: Amalgamation with Wyong Shire Council

The next few questions will focus on these three options.

6. Thinking about the three options, which is your preferred option / first preference?




2



7. Please tell us why you chose Option 1 as your first preference? [unprompted]

Retain focus on local community issues, needs, identity

Retain existing size / GCC already covers a large area

Retain existing service levels

Do not like amalgamation option / GCC is going a good job

Reason not clearly stated / Would need further information to say why


8. Please tell us why you chose Option 2 as your first preference?

Shared services can offer general benefits / efficiencies


Cooperation by GCC with other Councils can offer benefits / efficiencies

Shared service should still enable a focus on local community issues, needs, identity

Do not like amalgamation option / GCC is doing a good job

Reason no clearly stated / Would need further information to say why


9. Please tell us why you chose Option 3 as your first option?

Amalgamation can offer general benefits / efficiencies



Amalgamation preferable / GCC requires improvement



3



10. Which option is your second preference?




11. Which option is your third preference?




12. Please tell us why you chose Option 1 as your third preference?

GCC needs to change / requires improvement

Current model is not efficient

Current model is not sustainable

There should be a regional focus





Need to retain local focus



4





The area is too large to be run by one stand-alone Council

Gosford and Wyong have very different needs and resources

Need to retain focus on local community issues, needs, identity


Amalgamation won't offer benefits or efficiencies


15. Interviewer to note any questions or misunderstandings around the three options.

Section 5: Communicating with you

16. What do you believe would be the best ways for Gosford City Council to communicate informationabout the local government reforms to residents? Please tick all that apply.

Word of mouth



Facebook and Twitter

Letterbox flyer


17. Are you happy for Gosford City Council to contact you in the future about further consultationactivities?

Yes

No

5



18. If yes, please provide your name, email and phone numberContact name:

Contact email:

Daytime phone:

Demographic information

19. Which of the following age ranges do you fall into?

Under 18

18-29

30-39

40-49

50-59

60-69

70 and over

20. Which suburb do you live in?

21. Do you rent or own your home?

Rent

Own / purchasing


Interviewer to complete

22. Gender

Male

Female

6



23. Location

Kibble Park

Erina Fair Shopping Centre

Gosford Station

Peninsula Leisure Centre

Fountain Plaza

7



Share Your Thoughts on the Future of Gosford City Council

Gosford City’s residents, ratepayers and businesspeople are being invited to share their thoughts on our city, and where we’re headed in the future. To have your say about the future of our council area, and to find out more about the ‘Fit for the Future’ reform program for local councils, please go to www.gosford.nsw.gov.au Please complete the online survey by Tuesday 16 June 2015.









Survey data across modes

The quality of services it delivers to local residents * How the survey was completed? Crosstabulation

How the survey was completed?

Total Phone On-Line Face to

face

The quality of services it delivers to local residents

1 Very poor

27 31 4 62

5.4% 8.3% 7.5% 6.7%

2 34 48 6 88

6.8% 12.8% 11.3% 9.5%

3 Neutral 193 106 18 317

38.5% 28.3% 34.0% 34.1%

4 193 166 23 382

38.5% 44.3% 43.4% 41.1%

5 Very good

54 24 2 80

10.8% 6.4% 3.8% 8.6%

Total 501 375 53 929

100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0%

Its financial strength * How the survey was completed?

Crosstabulation



face


1 Very poor

26 33 3 62

6.4% 9.0% 5.7% 7.5%

2 67 44 8 119

16.4% 12.0% 15.1% 14.3%

3 Neutral 232 168 32 432

56.7% 45.7% 60.4% 52.0%

4 64 112 9 185

15.6% 30.4% 17.0% 22.3%

5 Very good

20 11 1 32

4.9% 3.0% 1.9% 3.9%

Total 409 368 53 830

100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0%



Its maintenance of local infrastructure * How the survey was completed? Crosstabulation



face


1 Very poor

90 63 7 160

17.9% 16.8% 13.2% 17.2%

2 126 95 19 240

25.0% 25.4% 35.8% 25.8%

3

Neutral 146 118 14 278

29.0% 31.6% 26.4% 29.9%

4 109 86 12 207

21.7% 23.0% 22.6% 22.3%

5 Very good

32 12 1 45

6.4% 3.2% 1.9% 4.8%

Total 503 374 53 930

100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0%

The way it consults with the community * How the survey

was completed? Crosstabulation



face


1 Very poor

78 59 7 144

15.8% 15.7% 13.2% 15.6%

2 81 66 20 167

16.4% 17.6% 37.7% 18.1%

3 Neutral

164 126 14 304

33.2% 33.6% 26.4% 33.0%

4 134 104 12 250

27.1% 27.7% 22.6% 27.1%

5 Very good

37 20 0 57

7.5% 5.3% 0.0% 6.2%

Total 494 375 53 922

100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0%



The way it carries out its regulatory functions (e.g. processing development applications, parking controls, dog management) * How the

survey was completed? Crosstabulation



face

The way it carries out its regulatory functions (e.g. processing development applications, parking controls, dog

management)

1 Very poor

50 51 11 112

11.1% 13.6% 20.8% 12.8%

2 85 66 10 161

18.9% 17.6% 18.9% 18.3%

3 Neutral 189 155 16 360

42.0% 41.3% 30.2% 41.0%

4 92 95 15 202

20.4% 25.3% 28.3% 23.0%

5 Very good

34 8 1 43

7.6% 2.1% 1.9% 4.9%

Total 450 375 53 878

100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0%

Prior to this call, were you aware of this local government reform program? * How the survey was completed? Crosstabulation



face


Yes 266 251 51 568

52.5% 66.6% 63.8% 58.9%

No 241 126 29 396

47.5% 33.4% 36.3% 41.1%

Total 507 377 80 964

100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0%



How interested are you in the subject of local government reform? * How the survey was completed? Crosstabulation



face

How interested are you in the subject of local government reform?

Very interested

61 153 14 228

12.0% 40.6% 17.5% 23.6%

Quite interested

239 171 35 445

47.0% 45.4% 43.8% 46.1%

Not very interested

170 45 29 244

33.5% 11.9% 36.3% 25.3%


38 8 2 48

7.5% 2.1% 2.5% 5.0%

Total 508 377 80 965

100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0%

Most preferred * How the survey was completed? Crosstabulation



face

Most preferred No change 154 106 22 282

30.4% 28.2% 27.5% 29.3%

Multi-Purpose Joint Organisation

193 159 37 389

38.1% 42.3% 46.3% 40.4%


129 111 21 261

25.4% 29.5% 26.3% 27.1%

Unsure/no idea 31 0 0 31

6.1% 0.0% 0.0% 3.2%

Total 507 376 80 963

100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0%

Next preferred * How the survey was completed? Crosstabulation



face

Next preferred

No change 114 122 27 263

22.5% 32.4% 35.1% 27.4%


237 194 38 469

46.8% 51.6% 49.4% 48.9%


99 60 12 171

19.6% 16.0% 15.6% 17.8%


11.1% 0.0% 0.0% 5.8%

Total 506 376 77 959

100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0%



Least preferred * How the survey was completed? Crosstabulation



face

Least preferred

No change 197 172 32 401

38.9% 45.7% 40.5% 41.7%


28 22 3 53

5.5% 5.9% 3.8% 5.5%


225 182 44 451

44.4% 48.4% 55.7% 46.9%


11.2% 0.0% 0.0% 5.9%

Total 507 376 79 962

100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0%

Phone survey data

Prior to this call, were you aware of this local government reform program? * Most preferred Crosstabulation

Most preferred

Total No

change MPJO Wyong/Gosford amalgamation

Unsure/no idea


Yes 63 107 84 11 265

40.9% 55.4% 65.1% 35.5% 52.3%

No 91 86 45 20 242

59.1% 44.6% 34.9% 64.5% 47.7%

Total 154 193 129 31 507

100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0%



How interested are you in the subject of local government reform? * Most preferred Crosstabulation

Most preferred

Total

No change

Multi-Purpose Joint Org'n


Unsure/no idea

How interested are you in the subject of local government reform?

Very interested

13 22 22 3 60

8.4% 11.4% 17.1% 9.7% 11.8%

Quite interested

74 98 62 6 240

48.1% 50.8% 48.1% 19.4% 47.3%

Not very interested

49 67 36 18 170

31.8% 34.7% 27.9% 58.1% 33.5%


18 6 9 4 37

11.7% 3.1% 7.0% 12.9% 7.3%

Total 154 193 129 31 507

100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0%




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fit for the future community engagement · 2015-07-02 · 2 fit for the future community engagement...

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